Five employees receive President’s Award for Excellence

Fifteen employees with a collective 248 years of service were nominated for the 2024 President’s Award for Excellence. These employees were recognized during a ceremony on April 2, where President Tim Sands announced five winners. Each winner receives a letter of commendation from the president, a certificate, and a $2,000 pre-tax award.

The President’s Award for Excellence, established in 1990 by President James D. McComas, is an annual recognition of full-time staff for their outstanding contributions and consistently excellent performance for Virginia Tech.

“I’m honored to recognize the exceptional achievements of this year’s recipients,” said Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. “The President’s Award for Excellence shines a light on the dedication and service of Virginia Tech’s staff and the important role they play in our university’s success.”

The 2024 President’s Award recipients are the following:

Holly Caldwell, computational modeling and data analytics program manager for the Academy of Data Science, has worked for Virginia Tech since 2017.

Mark Embree, Hamlett professor of the Academy of Integrated Science in the Department of Mathematics, wrote in a letter of nomination: “Holly serves as the program manager for the computational modeling and data analytics (CMDA) major, the sole staff person dedicated to this program that presently enrolls over 600 students — primary and secondary majors. Speaking frankly, in the summer of 2022, CMDA could not have continued as a viable major without her diverse contributions and tireless effort. Holly demonstrates a highly collegial spirit: She learns from colleagues, uses that knowledge to improve our program, and works creatively to make Virginia Tech a better place.”

Tammy Guynn, fiscal technician for the School of Education, has worked for Virginia Tech since 2005.

Cynthia Ellis, fiscal technician for the School of Education, wrote in a letter of nomination: “Tammy consistently displays leadership and excellence in the quality of her work and work ethics. Her attention to detail, knowledge of university policies and procedures, and willingness to go beyond the normal eight-hour business day is phenomenal. She has been the ‘go to’ person when my colleagues and I have had questions about spending, policies, and procedures. She never shows pressure if under a deadline, and she always has a kind word to give to everyone. In her newest role of working with payroll for the School of Education, she transitioned into the role with ease, working endlessly to ensure everything is correct and running smoothly.”

Keith Johnson, senior facilities associate for the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), has worked for Virginia Tech since 2017.

Pamela Stiff, executive assistant for the institute, wrote in a letter of nomination: “As the senior facilities associate, Keith oversees our facility and infrastructure management, co-leads the university equipment inventory, and provides support for our many visitor groups and events. This is no easy feat, as our facilities include six buildings, 160 acres, and approximately 340 employees. He plays a critical role in keeping VTTI running smoothly. In September, we hosted the high-profile Distracted Driving Summitt with 200 attendees from around the country. The paving around our facilities, which was supposed to start a few weeks later, started the week of the event. Keith put in extra hours of effort to ensure the paving work was completed, but also that our event would have access to all the facilities for tours and demonstrations. Our visitors left with an extremely positive impression of VTTI and Virginia Tech, bolstering our reputation in the transportation field. Keith actively improves not only our work environment but our community; he is a true role model.”

Chad Joines, agricultural supervisor for the School of Animal Sciences, has worked for Virginia Tech since 1993.

Vitor Mercadante, associate professor for the School of Animal Sciences, wrote in a letter of nomination: “Chad contributes to all three pillars of the land-grant mission including teaching, research, and Extension, all the while providing daily care and management to over 750 head of beef cattle. Whether it's providing cattle for a last-minute hands-on activity in a large class or supporting Extension programs such as workshops or farm field days, Chad approaches every task with a smile on his face. He also represents Virginia Tech in various associations and boards, including the Virginia State Fair, Virginia Beef Expo, and currently serves as president of the Virginia Simmental Association. Chad is heavily involved with our annual student-run cattle sale, "Hokie Harvest," which offers some of our best cattle genetics to local and regional producers and providing students with real-life hands-on opportunities. Additionally, he mentors undergraduate students in the beef unit, contributing to the development of the next generation of agriculture professionals and beef industry leaders.”

Travis Quesenberry, pesticide application technician for Facilities Operations, has worked for Virginia Tech since 2014.  

Jon Clark Teglas, chief of staff for the vice president for campus, planning, and facilities, wrote in a letter of nomination: “The impact of Travis’s work extends far beyond the visual appeal of our campus. His efforts directly support outdoor spaces that facilitate the unique ‘sense of place’ that is synonymous with Virginia Tech. By ensuring the completion of critical grounds-related tasks, Travis plays a pivotal role in maintaining a safe, welcoming, and conducive environment for all. Travis's collaborative spirit fosters a sense of unity and purpose within his team, leading to increased productivity, morale, and camaraderie. Travis's leadership and support empower his colleagues to achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to our shared goals as a division providing facilities and infrastructure support to a complex institution. Travis has modeled a mindset of resilience, adaptability, and action. When called upon, he stepped up. His actions not only sustained this critical team over an extended time, but also elevated their impact, reflecting the Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) spirit fundamental to Virginia Tech's identity.”

In addition to this year’s winners, congratulations to the following 2024 President’s Award for Excellence nominees:

• Deborah Bissi, University Libraries’ coordinator, Northern Virginia Resource Center
• Jade Brooks, research administrator, Department of Mechanical Engineering
• Cynthia Gautier, director of business operations, Department of Chemistry
• Kevin Kish, director of business operations, Department of Mathematics
• Kimberly Kitts, financial specialist, Department of Agricultural, Leadership and Community Education
• Kenneth Knott, manager of analytical services and nuclear magnetic resonance facilities, Department of Chemistry
• Roger Link, computer systems senior engineer, Department of Physics
• Sean Malone, research specialist senior, Tidewater Agricultural Research and Extension Center
• Stacey Ratcliffe, business operations manager, Department of Chemical Engineering
• Melissa Vidmar, communications and marketing specialist, Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics

Find more information about this year’s winners and nominees. Find information on past award winners.